Hamid called for an immediate halt to the anti-criticism stance taken by both the police and PNS/ASN. He stressed that the use of excessive force and the physical violence inflicted upon students must end immediately. The police should conduct thorough investigations into the actions of their officers who used disproportionate force against students in Nabire, Yalimo, Jayapura, and Wamena. Furthermore, the PSN/ASN who was caught on video attacking a student should be held accountable under the 2014 Child Protection Law.

He also urged authorities to investigate officers who failed to prevent the violent actions of the ASN, highlighting that these individuals were complicit in the abuse. The crackdown on protests in Papua is part of a broader government strategy to silence critical voices surrounding the MBG program across Indonesia.

According to Hamid, the government should embrace criticism and allow students to express their concerns. “Like adults, children have the right to express their opinions and peacefully protest,” he said. He reminded the government that students who peacefully express their views should be protected, in accordance with both the 1945 Constitution and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The state must guarantee the safety and protection of children engaged in peaceful protest.

The protests in Papua were triggered by opposition to the MBG program and demands for free education and improved school facilities. On Monday, February 17, a series of coordinated protests took place across several regions in Papua. In addition to opposing the MBG program, the students called for better educational provisions from the government.

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